When do you need to hire a Social Security attorney?

A:

Quick Answer

People should hire a Social Security attorney either at the beginning stages of filing for Social Security disability or immediately after a claim is denied, Nolo says. Seeking an initial consultation at the application stage is a good idea so that the attorney can help navigate the client through the application process. If the application is denied, a Social Security attorney can help navigate his client through the appeals process.

Social Security attorneys are helpful in a number of ways. Not only can an attorney help better his client's chances for approval, he can also can collect and submit necessary medical evidence, obtain opinions from the medical doctors assigned to the case, draft a detailed brief for the administrative law judge, and prepare his clients for questions at the hearing, Nolo explains.

A Social Security disability attorney sometimes has the ability to move his clients case through the system faster, especially if the medical condition is terminal or the client has an extremely dire financial situation, Nolo notes. Attorneys can also send judges request for an on-the-record decision, meaning the case could be approved for benefits without the need for a hearing. Nolo also states that people should refrain from hiring an attorney after they've already submitted an application for benefits and are awaiting a decision.